Printing apparatus and method with respect to medium

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

00011. Field of the Invention

0002The present invention relates to a printing apparatus capable of independently printing without being connected to, for example, a host computer, and a method for printing on medium.

00032. Related Arts

0004Recently, various types of printers capable of printing images on medium such as CD-R, DVD-R, etc., have been developed. In such printers, a medium on which printing is executed is set in a printer, and data of images to be printed are taken in a host computer. Image adjustment with respect to the position, size and design, etc., of the image data on a medium is carried out, and the adjusted image data are transmitted to a printer. Then, the printer carries out a printing process on the medium on the basis of the image data, whereby a medium of attractive design like CDs and DVDs sold on the market can be completed.

0005However, a machine capable of independently printing without connection to a host computer, a so-called stand-alone machine is available as a printer. There are some types of such stand-alone printers, for example, a type capable of duplicating, in which a scanner feature and a printer feature are integrally incorporated, and a type having a card slot into which a memory card is inserted, capable of printing images by taking in images from the memory card.

0006Herein, there is an idea in which a sample CD-R is scanned by using the former type of machine, and the image is printed on a CD-R (printed on a medium). Actually, however, if this method is employed, there is a problem in that shadow portions are printed on a CD-R due to the thickness of the sample CD-R. Also, in the latter machine type, there is no model which is capable of printing image data of a memory card <b>12</b> onto a CD-R. That is, development of a printer having such a type of feature has been eagerly desired. In addition, since there are various needs on the users' side with respect to image quality modes where a printer is provided with a medium-printing feature, some measures have been required to reflect respective modes onto the medium printing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0007In at least one embodiment of the present invention provides a printing apparatus and a method for printing, which, even if a feature capable of independently printing on a medium as a single unit is added to a type having a plurality of image quality modes, are capable of securing a function of satisfying the respective image quality modes and capable of improving the functionality of the apparatus.

0008In order to solve the above-described problem, at least one embodiment of the invention is featured in that a printing apparatus includes an image capture unit which captures a sample medium by scanning or reading data from a memory medium and a printing unit for executing printing on the basis of the image data captured by the capture unit, and includes a processing unit for processing the image data captured by the capture unit in accordance with a printing range of a medium which is a subject on which printing is executed, an operating unit that is operated when selecting a mode among a plurality of image quality modes, and a controlling unit for actuating the capture unit and a print-executing unit in accordance with the image quality mode set by the operating unit and printing the image data processed by the image processing unit onto the medium.

0009According to the construction, the image processing unit processes the image data captured by the capture unit in accordance with a printing range of a medium being a subject on which the printing is executed. The controlling unit actuates the capture unit and print-executing unit on the basis of actuation contents responsive to the image quality mode set by the operating unit and executes printing on a medium. Therefore, since, even if a feature capable of printing on a medium is added to a type having a plurality of image quality modes, the capture unit and print-executing unit can be actuated in accordance with the image quality mode when executing printing on a medium, functions by which respective image quality modes are satisfied can be secured, and functionality of the printing apparatus can be improved.

0010In at least one embodiment of the invention, the capture unit is a scanner device for reading images of the sample medium by scanning, wherein the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read images of the sample medium at a high resolution when the high resolution is selected as the image quality mode, and at the same time, causes the print-executing unit to print the images on the medium at a high resolution.

0011According to the construction, since scanning and printing can be carried out at a high resolution when the image quality mode is a high image quality mode, it becomes possible to print clear and fine images on a medium.

0012In at least one embodiment of the invention described above, the capture unit is a scanner device for reading images of the sample medium by scanning, wherein the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read images of the sample medium at a low resolution when a high speed mode is selected as the image quality mode, and at the same time, causes the print-executing unit to print the images on the medium at a low resolution. According to the construction, since scan printing can be carried out at a low resolution when the image quality mode is a high-speed mode, it becomes possible to print images on a medium in a short time.

0013In at least one embodiment of the invention, the capture unit is a scanner device for reading images of the sample medium by scanning, wherein the capture unit includes a memory unit for temporarily storing image data obtained by scanning of the scanner device, a measuring unit for measuring or metering the available memory volume of the memory unit, and a determining unit for determining whether or not the available memory volume of the memory unit decreases below a threshold value, and the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read images of the sample medium at a low resolution when it is determined on the basis of a result of determination made by the determining unit that the available memory volume of the memory unit is lower than the threshold value.

0014According to the construction, where the available memory volume of the memory unit decreases below the threshold value and the available memory volume of the memory unit is slight, scanning is carried out at a low resolution. If the available memory volume is not available in the memory unit for storing scanned image data, the scanner device stops in the process of scanning. However, since scanning is executed at a low resolution where the available memory volume of the memory unit is slight, the data volume captured by the scanner device also becomes only slight, wherein no shortage occurs in the memory even if the available memory volume is slight, and there is no inconvenience by which the scanner device stops in the process.

0015In at least one embodiment of the invention, the controlling unit causes the scanner device to read the images of the sample medium at a low resolution where it is determined on the basis of the result of determination made by the determining unit that the remaining memory volume of the memory unit is lower than the threshold value, and causes the print-executing unit to print the images on a medium at a resolution responsive to the image quality mode set by the operating unit. According to the construction, even if the available memory volume of the memory unit is short, printing on a medium can be carried out at an image level responsive to the image quality mode set by a user.

0016In at least one embodiment of the invention, the image data of the sample medium, which are captured by the scanner device, includes shadow portions produced by a scanning process around the outer circumference of the corresponding sample medium, and the image processing unit masks pixels of the shadow portions of the image data, and brings about data free from any color with respect to the medium when executing printing. According to the construction, when a sample medium is scanned by a scanner device, shadow portions of the sample medium are unavoidably produced in the image data. However, since the pixels of the shadow portions of the sample medium, which are produced by scanning, are masked, no shadow portion (black-colored portion) is printed on a medium when executing printing on the medium.

0017At least one embodiment of the invention is featured in that a method for recording on a medium used in a printing apparatus includes a capture unit for capturing images of a sample medium by scanning or reading data from a memory medium and an executing unit for executing printing on the basis of the image data captured by the capture unit, wherein image processing unit processes the image data captured by the capture unit in accordance with a printing range of a medium which is a subject on which printing is executed, and controlling unit actuates the capture unit and print-executing unit in accordance with the image quality mode set by the operating unit and prints the image data processed by the image processing unit onto the medium.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of a printer according to one embodiment;

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a block diagram showing an electric configuration of the printer;

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a descriptive view regarding image data acquired by pre-scanning;

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a descriptive view showing pixel data acquired by regular scanning;

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5(</figref><i>a</i>) is a conceptual view of a template, and (<i>b</i>) is a table for scan printing;

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a descriptive view showing non-printing portions of the pixel data;

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a screen view of an LCD when carrying out card printing;

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a descriptive view showing pixel data acquired when data are expanded;

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is table for card printing;

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a descriptive view for printing a plurality of images onto a single CD-R;

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a flow chart for printing on CD-R based on scanning; and

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a flow chart for printing on CD-R based on card reading.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

0030Hereinafter, a description is given of one embodiment of a printing apparatus and a method for printing on a medium, in which the present invention is embodied.

0031As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, a printer <b>1</b> serving as a printing apparatus is an ink jet type stand-alone printer capable of independently executing printing without being connected to a host computer. The printer <b>1</b> is capable of scan printing (duplicating) in which it scans a document (sample) placed on a document table <b>3</b> on the upper surface of a case <b>2</b>, processes the document for printing, and delivers a sheet <b>4</b> of paper through a delivery port <b>5</b>. Also, the printer <b>1</b> is also capable of scanning and reading by which scanned image data (scan data) are transmitted and printing print data are received from a host computer and outputting the same.

0032An operating panel portion <b>6</b> is disposed on the case <b>2</b> of the printer <b>1</b>. An LCD (liquid crystal display) <b>7</b> and various types of switches <b>8</b>, which are an operating unit, are disposed on the operating panel portion <b>6</b>. The LCD <b>7</b> displays a menu function, printing conditions, operation contents, operating status, error contents, etc., of the printer <b>1</b>. In addition, various types of switches <b>8</b> are a power source button <b>9</b> for turning on and off the power source, a selection button <b>10</b> for selecting a printing mode of the printer <b>1</b>, and a printing start button <b>11</b> (two buttons for color and monochrome printing), which is pressed to commence a duplicating process and a scanning process.

0033A card slot <b>13</b> into which a memory card <b>12</b> being a memory medium is inserted is disposed at the right side lower part of the front side of the case <b>2</b>. Images picked up by a digital camera, etc., are stored in the memory card <b>12</b> as image data of digital signals. The printer <b>1</b> reads the image data of the memory card <b>12</b> inserted into the card slot <b>13</b> and is capable of executing card printing by which the images selected from the images by operating the switches <b>8</b> are printed and outputted.

0034The printer <b>1</b> is also capable of executing CD-R printing which carries out a printing process on a CD-R <b>14</b> being a medium. In detail, a flat plate-shaped CD-R tray <b>15</b> which is a separate component from the printer <b>1</b> is prepared; and the CD-R <b>14</b> is placed in the hole portion <b>15</b>a on a CD-R tray <b>15</b>. And, the CD-R tray <b>15</b> is set in the printer <b>1</b>. After that, the CD-R printing mode is selected by the selection button <b>10</b>, and at the same time, the print starting button <b>11</b> is pressed to commence printing, wherein a printing process is executed with the upper surface of the CD-R <b>14</b> used as a printing range.

0035As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the printer <b>1</b> is provided with a CPU <b>16</b> in charge of main control. A ROM <b>18</b>, RAM <b>19</b> for the CPU and ASIC <b>20</b> are connected to the CPU <b>16</b> via a bus <b>17</b>. Also, the printer <b>1</b> is provided with a scanner unit <b>21</b> and a printer unit <b>22</b>. The scanner unit <b>21</b> has an exposure lamp, CCD sensor, pulse motor, etc., and is connected to the bus <b>17</b> via a scanner input circuit <b>23</b>. In addition, the printer unit <b>22</b> has a head, carriage motor, paper feeding motor, drive circuit, etc., and is connected to the bus <b>17</b>. Further, the capture unit (scanner device) includes the scanner unit <b>21</b> and scanner input circuit <b>23</b>. The print-executing unit has the printer unit <b>22</b>.

0036The ROM <b>18</b> stores a control program for controlling the printer <b>1</b>, scanner control parameters for driving the scanner unit <b>21</b>, and printer control parameters for driving the printer unit <b>22</b>, etc. The ROM <b>18</b> also stores a medium print-executing program which is executed by the CPU <b>16</b> when executing CD-R printing. Also, the image processing unit, a measuring unit and a determining unit includes the CPU <b>16</b> and medium print-executing programs, and the controlling unit has the CPU <b>16</b>, ASIC <b>20</b> and medium print-executing programs.

0037A RAM <b>24</b> serving as a memory unit for ASIC is connected to the ASIC <b>20</b>. The ASIC <b>20</b> carries out image processings on the image data picked up by scanning and image data read from the memory card <b>12</b>, and transmits the image data to the head of the printer unit <b>22</b>. The CPU <b>16</b> controls the scanner unit <b>21</b> via the scanner input circuit <b>23</b> on the basis of the scanner control parameters when actuating the scanner. When processing for printing, the CPU <b>16</b> controls the printer unit <b>22</b> on the basis of the processed image data and the printer control parameters and controls reading of the data when reading image data of the memory card <b>12</b>.

0038Next, a description is given of CD-R printing by scanning in a stand-alone machine. First, a sample CD-R <b>25</b> serving as a sample medium is set on the document table <b>3</b>, and simultaneously the CD-R tray <b>15</b> on which a non-printed CD-R <b>14</b> is placed is set in the printer. Subsequently, the printing mode is set to the CD-R printing mode by the selection button <b>10</b>, the printing method in the mode is set to the scanning printing. In addition, the image quality mode is selected between the high image quality mode and high-speed mode. If the printing start button <b>11</b> is pressed in this state, the CPU <b>16</b> executes the CD-R printing described below on the basis of the medium print-executing program of the ROM <b>18</b>.

0039Where the high image quality mode is selected in the image quality mode, first, the CPU <b>16</b> causes the scanner unit <b>21</b> to execute pre-scanning, and captures the image data <b>26</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. Based on the image data <b>26</b>, it is determined on which part of the document table <b>3</b> the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is placed. Herein, since shadow portions (diagonal portions shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) <b>27</b> are scanned if the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is scanned, the CD-R image <b>28</b> including the shadow portions <b>27</b> is determined to be the sample CD-R <b>25</b> in the image data <b>26</b>. Further, since it is possible to distinguish the CD-R image <b>28</b> from the portion <b>29</b> which is not the CD-R image <b>28</b>, the position of the sample CD-R <b>25</b> on the document table <b>3</b> can be understood by checking the outline of the CD-R image <b>28</b>.

0040Continuously, the CPU <b>16</b> determines the regular scanning area on the basis of the scanning result of the pre-scanning. That is, the minimum square area (the area shown with broken lines in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) in which the CD-R image <b>28</b> including the shadow portions <b>27</b> of the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is determined as the regular scanning area. The CPU <b>16</b> causes the scanner unit <b>21</b> to execute regular scanning, and reads the image data of the portion surrounded by the area shown with broken lines in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> at the memory resolution (scanning resolution) responsive to the image quality mode. Herein, since the image quality mode is a high image quality mode, the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is scanned at the memory resolution X<b>1</b> with a high resolution. The CPU <b>16</b> sequentially transfers the image data, which are read by the regular scanning, to the RAM <b>24</b> of the ASIC <b>20</b> line by line.

0041Here, the ASIC <b>20</b> re-arranges the image data equivalent to one line, which are written in the RAM <b>24</b>, in a sequence that composes one raster line when the head scans, and transfers the same to the RAM <b>19</b> of the CPU <b>16</b>. The transfer process is repeated until the process is completed for all the lines of the image data. Thereby, pixel data (RGB data) <b>30</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, responsive to the memory resolution X<b>1</b> are generated in the RAM <b>19</b>. The pixel data <b>30</b> includes pixels <b>30</b><i>a </i>of the shadow portions <b>27</b> of the sample CD-R <b>25</b>, which are produced when scanning.

0042After the transfer process is completed, the CPU <b>16</b> carries out an image working process in regard to the pixel data <b>30</b> written in the RAM <b>19</b>. Hereinafter, a detailed description is given thereof. A plurality of templates T (in this example; two templates), shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5(</figref><i>a</i>); responsive to the diameter size of the CD-R <b>14</b> are stored in the ROM <b>18</b>. The templates T of this example are a template Ta whose diameter is a 12 cm size and a template Tb whose diameter is an 8 cm size.

0043A table TB<b>1</b> for scan printing, which is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5(</figref><i>b</i>), having mask information K for each of templates Ta and Tb written is stored in the ROM <b>18</b>. The mask information K designates unnecessary pixels for printing when printing on the CD-R <b>14</b>. The information determines to which pixels ink is not discharged to be white data, with the center point (center pixel) <b>30</b><i>b </i>of the CD-R used as the basis point on the pixel data <b>30</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>. With respect to the mask information K of the example, Ka and Kb are stored in accordance with the respective templates Ta and Tb, and the mask information K designates respective pixels of the shadow portions <b>27</b> of the pixel data <b>30</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, the middle hole portion <b>31</b> of the sample CD-R <b>25</b>, and outside portions (four corners) of the shadow portions <b>27</b>.

0044The CPU <b>16</b> carries out a matching process using the template T as an image working process, compares the CD-R image (image including the shadow portions <b>27</b>) of the pixel data <b>30</b> with the template T, and determines the size of the sample CD-R <b>25</b>. In the present example, it is assumed that the size of the CD-R is a 12 cm size. Continuously, the CPU <b>16</b> obtains the number of pixels with respect to the ordinate and abscissa of the pixel data <b>30</b> as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> and calculates an intersection point between a line La, on which the intermediate pixel in the ordinate is positioned, and a line Lb, on which the intermediate pixel in the abscissa is positioned, as the center point <b>30</b><i>b </i>of the CD-R image <b>28</b>.

0045After the center point <b>30</b><i>a </i>is calculated the CPU <b>16</b> carries out a masking process with reference to the table TB<b>1</b> and establishes unnecessary portions of printing of the respective pixels of the pixel data <b>30</b> as white data (that is, data for which no ink is discharged). That is, using the mask information Ka of the table TB<b>1</b>, the CPU <b>16</b> recognizes the shadow portions <b>27</b>, middle hole portion <b>31</b>, and outside portion <b>32</b>, which are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> and are not necessary to be printed, on the basis of the center point <b>30</b><i>b </i>of the CD-R image <b>28</b>, and sets these pixels as white data to which no ink is discharged. And, the CPU <b>16</b> transmits the pixel data <b>30</b> to the ASIC <b>20</b> after the masking process is over.

0046The ASIC <b>20</b> executes an image processing on the pixel data <b>30</b> and generates head drive data in which data are arranged in the sequence of ink discharge. Hereinafter, a detailed description is given thereof. First, the ASIC <b>20</b> converts the pixel data <b>30</b> inputted by scanning to a printing resolution responsive to the image quality mode. Herein, since the image quality mode is set to a high image quality mode, the pixel data <b>30</b> are converted to the high resolution as the printing resolution.

0047The ASIC <b>20</b> binarizes the RGB-based pixel data and converts the same to YMCK-based pixel data (YMCK data). Continuously, the ASIC <b>20</b> executes a microweaving process of the YMCK data and generates head drive data equivalent to one scan, which is to be processed for printing when the head scans one time. The head drive data are binary data for instructing discharge or non-discharge of ink to respective nozzles of the head and a discharge amount thereof thereto, wherein no ink is discharged to the pixels masked in the masking process.

0048A description is given of the microweaving process. Since the head of the printer unit <b>22</b> forms dots at the nozzle pitch in the feeding direction of paper <b>4</b> (the subscanning direction), rasters of continuous numbers cannot be formed by the main scanning carried out at one time. Therefore, the raster forming positions are shifted whenever forming rasters while forming a plurality of rasters at intervals of the nozzle pitch in respective main scanning, and spaces between the rasters are filled by other rasters, and, finally, continuous rasters are formed. This process is called a “microweaving process.”

0049After that, whenever head drive data equivalent to scanning of one time are stored in the RAM <b>24</b>, the ASIC <b>20</b> outputs the stored data to the printer unit <b>22</b> one after another. The CPU <b>16</b> drives the head on the basis of the head drive data, and at the same time, executes printing on the CD-R <b>14</b> by driving a carriage motor and a paper feeding motor on the basis of the printer control parameters. Through the above-described procedure, an image is printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> with no shadow portion provided and unnecessary portions decolored.

0050Herein, since the image quality mode is a high image quality mode, it is necessary that the image printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> is sharp and fine. Therefore, in the case of the high image quality mode, it is composed that the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is scanned at a high resolution (memory resolution X<b>1</b>) and the image is printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> at a high resolution (printing resolution Y<b>1</b>), wherein it becomes possible that an image is printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> at an image level in which a high image quality mode is enabled.

0051However, since the RAM <b>24</b> is used for operations other than the scanning, it is considered that the available memory amount M becomes short when scanning is executed. Therefore, the CPU <b>16</b> minutely checks the available memory amount M of the RAM <b>24</b> of the ASIC <b>20</b>. When the CPU <b>16</b> determines that the available memory amount M is reduced below the predetermined threshold value Ma and is slight at the moment when commencing scanning, an image in the regular scanning area is read at a low memory resolution X<b>2</b> (&lt;X<b>1</b>) in the regular scanning. Thereby, it becomes possible to secure and store the scanned image data even if the available memory amount M is slight, and such an inconvenience does not occur, which causes the scanning to be interrupted in process due to a cause of memory shortage in the RAM <b>24</b>.

0052On the other hand, where a high-speed mode is selected as the image quality mode, the CPU <b>16</b> causes pre-scanning and regular scanning to be carried out. However, the image data in the regular scanning area shown with broken lines in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> are read at the memory resolution X<b>2</b> with a low resolution in the regular scanning. As described above, since the image is scanned at a low resolution, the scanning time can be shortened. And, as in the high image quality mode, the CPU <b>16</b> carries out an image working process on the image data captured by the regular scanning and transfers the pixel data <b>30</b>, for which pixels unnecessary for printing are masked, to the ASIC <b>20</b>. The ASIC <b>20</b> carries out an image processing on the pixel data <b>30</b> and generates head drive data at the printing resolution Y<b>2</b> (&lt;Y<b>1</b>) with a low resolution.

0053Whenever the ASIC <b>20</b> generates the head drive data corresponding to one-time scanning of the head, the ASIC <b>20</b> transfers the same to the printer unit <b>20</b>. The CPU <b>16</b> drives the head on the basis of the head drive data transferred by the ASIC <b>20</b>, and at the same time, executes printing on the CD-R <b>14</b> by driving the carriage motor and paper feeding motor on the basis of the printer control parameters. Therefore, since printing is carried out at a low resolution, the printing time is shortened. In addition, memory resolutions X<b>1</b> and X<b>2</b> are changed by varying the scanning speed, etc., and the printing resolutions Y<b>1</b> and Y<b>2</b> are changed by varying the head scanning speed and paper feeding rate.

0054Next, a description is given of CD-R printing by card reading in a stand-alone machine. A user inserts a memory card <b>12</b> into a card slot <b>13</b>, and selects an image (sample image) desired to be printed out from images of the memory card <b>12</b>. Using various types of switches <b>8</b>, a printing image <b>33</b> and its layout information R are set by moving the printing image <b>33</b> in the up and down directions, and left and right directions with respect the reference position of printing (CD-R <b>14</b>), or changing its printing size by enlargement or contraction as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>. At this time, the diameter size of the CD-R <b>14</b> to be printed is established.

0055After these conditions are established, the printing mode is set to the CD-R printing mode by operating the selection button <b>10</b>, and the printing method in the mode is set to a card printing method, that is, a method for printing on the CD-R <b>14</b> on the basis of the image data read from the memory card <b>12</b>. If the printing start button <b>11</b> is pressed after various types of printing conditions are established, the CPU <b>16</b> executes CD-R printing, which is described below, on the basis of a medium print-executing program of the ROM <b>18</b>.

0056First, the CPU <b>16</b> reads layout information R set by the user, and determines the position and printing size on the CD-R <b>14</b> of the printing image <b>33</b>. Continuously, the CPU <b>16</b> reads the printing image <b>33</b> from the memory card <b>12</b>. The CPU <b>16</b> develops the read image data in accordance with the position and printing size based on the layout information R, and generates pixel data (RGB data) <b>34</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, the range of which is the minimum square in which the CD-R <b>14</b> can be accommodated. The pixel data <b>34</b> includes the middle hole portion <b>31</b> and the outside portion <b>32</b> of the CD-R image, which are unnecessary for printing. However, no shadow portion <b>27</b> is provided.

0057Also, the ROM <b>18</b> includes a table TB<b>2</b> for card printing, which is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>. The mask information K of the table TB<b>2</b> is stored as Kc and Kd in accordance with the diameter sizes Sa (12 cm) and Sb (8 cm) of the CD-R <b>14</b>, and is the information designating pixels of the middle hole portion <b>31</b> of the pixel data <b>34</b> shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> and the pixels of the outside portion <b>32</b> of the CD-R image <b>28</b>. Where the size of the CD-R <b>14</b> is determined to be Sa, the CPU <b>16</b> executes a masking process on the basis of the mask information Kc by the method similar to that in the case of scan printing, wherein portions unnecessary to be printed out of the pixel data <b>34</b> are set to be white data (data for which no ink is discharged).

0058In addition, the CPU <b>16</b> transfers the mask-processed pixel data <b>34</b> to the ASIC <b>20</b>. The ASIC <b>20</b> executes an image processing on the pixel data <b>30</b> and generates head drive data at a printing resolution Y<b>1</b> of a high resolution. If described in detail below, the ASIC <b>20</b> executes a resolution converting process, binarizing process and microweaving process with respect to pixel data <b>34</b> inputted by card reading, thereby sequentially generating head drive data equivalent to one-time scanning. Also, as soon as the head drive data corresponding to one-time scanning are stored in the RAM <b>24</b>, the ASIC <b>20</b> outputs the same to the printer unit <b>22</b> one after another, and causes the printer unit <b>22</b> to execute CD-R printing.

0059Further, where it is set that a plurality of images are printed on a single CD-R <b>14</b> in the card printing, the CPU <b>16</b> processes the combination information as layout information R, and a plurality of images are printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> as a single image on the basis of the layout information R. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, where four images are combined and printed thereon, images arranged two by two in both vertical and horizontal directions are recognized as a single image. An image working process and an image processing, etc., are carried out with respect to the image, and head drive data necessary for CDR printing are generated, wherein an image corresponding to the four images is printed on the CD-R.

0060Next, a description is given of procedures for executing CD-R printing by scanning by CPU <b>16</b>, in accordance with a flow chart shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>.

0061In Step <b>100</b>, prescanning is carried out, whereby it is determined on which part of the document table a sample CD-R is placed.

0062In Step <b>101</b>, a regular scanning area is determined. That is, although shadow portions <b>27</b> of the sample CD-R are captured when scanning, the minimum square area (the area shown with broken lines in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) in which the CD-R image <b>28</b> including the shadow portions <b>27</b> is covered is determined as the regular scanning area.

0063In Step <b>102</b>, the available memory amount M of the RAM <b>24</b> of the ASIC <b>20</b> is calculated.

0064In Step <b>103</b>, it is determined whether or not the available memory amount M calculated in Step <b>103</b> is lower then the threshold value Ma. If M&lt;Ma is established, the process advances to Step <b>104</b>, and if M≧Ma is established, the process advances to Step <b>106</b>.

0065In Step. <b>104</b>, the image quality mode is determined. That is, it is determined which image quality mode of a high image quality mode or a high-speed mode is selected. Herein, if the high image quality mode is selected, the process advances to Step <b>105</b>, and if the high-speed mode is selected, the process advances to Step <b>106</b>.

0066In Step <b>105</b>, high resolution scanning is set. That is, the memory resolution (scanning resolution) is set to X<b>1</b> the resolution of which is high.

0067In Step <b>106</b>, low resolution scanning is set. That is, the memory resolution (scanning resolution) is set to X<b>2</b> the resolution of which is low.

0068In Step <b>107</b>, regular scanning is commenced. That is, the entire scanning area of the sample CD-R placed on the document table <b>3</b> is scanned at a resolution responsive to the image quality mode.

0069In Step <b>108</b>, image data are transferred to the RAM <b>24</b> of the ASIC <b>20</b>.

0070In Step <b>109</b>, image data are transferred to the RAM <b>19</b> of the CPU <b>16</b>.

0071In Step <b>110</b>, it is determined whether or not the data transfer is completed. If the transfer is completed, pixel data (RGB data) <b>30</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, responsive to the size of the sample CD-R <b>25</b> are generated. Here, if the data transfer is completed, the process advances to Step <b>111</b>, and if not, the process returns to Step <b>107</b>, wherein the data transfer is continued.

0072In Step <b>111</b>, an image working process is executed with respect to the pixel data <b>30</b> written in the RAM <b>19</b> of the CPU <b>16</b>. Here, the center point <b>30</b><i>b </i>of the pixel data <b>30</b> is determined by a matching process. Based thereon, a masking process is carried out to mask portions unnecessary to be printed in the pixel data <b>30</b>.

0073In Step <b>112</b>, the ASIC <b>20</b> is caused to execute a resolution converting process. That is, scanned pixel data <b>30</b> are converted to a printing resolution in accordance with the image quality mode, wherein, when a high image quality mode is employed, the data are converted to the printing resolution Y<b>1</b> with a high resolution, and when a high-speed mode is employed, the data are converted to the printing resolution Y<b>2</b> with a low resolution.

0074In Step <b>113</b>, the ASIC <b>20</b> is caused to execute a binarizing process, wherein RGB-based pixel data <b>30</b> are converted to YMCK data.

0075In Step <b>114</b>, the ASIC <b>20</b> is caused to execute a microweaving process.

0076In Step <b>115</b>, the pixel data <b>30</b> subjected to the microweaving process are outputted to the printer unit <b>22</b> and CD-R printing is carried out.

0077Next, a description is given of procedures for the CPU <b>16</b> to execute CD-R printing by card reading, with reference to a flow chart shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>.

0078In Step <b>200</b>, layout information R established by a user is read.

0079In Step <b>201</b>, image data are read from the memory card <b>12</b>. That is, image data of an image pointed out by a user are read from the memory card <b>12</b>.

0080In Step <b>202</b>, the image data are developed on the basis of the layout information R. That is, the read image data are developed in accordance with the position and printing size based on the layout information R, thereby generating pixel data (RGB data) <b>34</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, with the minimum square used as a range, in which the CD-R <b>14</b> is accommodated.

0081In Steps <b>203</b> through <b>207</b> processes similar to those in Steps <b>111</b> through <b>115</b> described above are carried out.

0082According to the present example, although a shadow portion <b>27</b> is produced in the image data of the scanned sample CD-R <b>25</b> due to the thickness thereof, the pixels of the shadow portions <b>27</b> are masked to be white data for which no ink is discharged. In addition thereto, pixels corresponding to the hole portion <b>31</b> and the outside portion <b>32</b> of the CD-R <b>14</b>, which are not required to be printed, are also masked. Therefore, even if CD-R is printed by scanning, portions not required to be printed such as the shadow portions <b>27</b>, hole portion <b>31</b> and outside portion <b>32</b> are not outputted or printed, and only the images to be projected are printed on the CD-R <b>14</b>.

0083Also, only portions, required for CD-R printing, of the image data read from the memory card <b>12</b> are taken out and the data there are developed. The data are image-processed and printed on the CD-R <b>14</b>. Therefore, no ink is discharged on the portions not required to be printed, and only the images to be projected are printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> as in the scan printing. Based on the above description, the scanned image and image read from the memory card <b>12</b> can be outputted and printed on the CD-R <b>14</b> in a favorable state.

0084Further, there are two types in the image quality modes of the printer <b>1</b>, one of which is a high image quality mode and the other of which is a high-speed mode. In the high image quality mode, it is necessary to print sharp and fine images on the CD-R <b>14</b>, and, in the high-speed mode, it is necessary to shorten the printing time. Therefore, when the high image quality mode is employed, scanning and printing are carried out at a high resolution, and when the high-speed mode is employed, scanning and printing are carried out at a low resolution. Operation contents of the scanner unit <b>21</b> and printer unit <b>22</b> are altered in accordance with the respective modes. Therefore, even if CD-R printing is independently enabled by a single printer, functions which are satisfied by the respective modes are secured, and functionality of the printer <b>1</b> is improved.

0085According to the above-described embodiments, the following effects can be brought about.

0086(1) Such a composition is employed, in which image data <b>26</b> captured by scanning and card reading are subjected to image processing, pixels not required to be printed are masked, and CD-R printing is carried out on the basis of the data thus obtained. Therefore, it is possible to execute CD-R printing by a stand-alone machine employing scan printing and card printing. Also, since the operation contents of the scanner unit <b>21</b> and printer unit <b>22</b> can be altered in accordance with the image quality modes (high image quality mode and high-speed mode), functions which are satisfied by the respective modes, that is, high image quality printing in the high image quality mode, shortening of the printing times in the high-speed mode are secured, and the functionality of the printer <b>1</b> is improved.

0087(2) Such current situations exist, in which when the RAM (line buffer) <b>24</b> for accommodating the scanned image data <b>26</b> becomes short in terms of memory, the scanning is interrupted at that time, and a normal scanning process cannot be carried out. However, since scanning is carried out at a low resolution when the available memory amount M is determined and the available memory amount M becomes lower than the threshold value Ma, only the amount of data captured by the scanning may be slight, wherein there is no inconvenience that the scanning is interrupted due to shortage of the memory. In addition, since printing is carried out at a printing resolution responsive to the image quality mode in the case of a shortage in memory, CD-R printing can be carried out at an image level responsive to respective image modes even under a condition where it is determined that the memory is short.

0088(3) It is composed that the ROM <b>18</b> is provided with tables TB<b>1</b> and TB<b>2</b> in which mask information K is written for each of the sizes (in this example, two sizes) of the CD-R <b>14</b>, and a masking process is carried out on the basis of these tables TB<b>1</b> and TB<b>2</b>. Therefore, images of the sample CD-R <b>25</b>, which are captured by scanning, and images read from the memory card <b>12</b> can be printed in different sizes of CD-R <b>14</b>.

0089(4) Where card printing is carried out, the position of the printing image in the up, down, left and right directions and printing size thereof, which are established by the operation panel portion <b>6</b> are reflected on the CD-R printing. Therefore, it is possible for a user to execute CD-R printing at the printing position and printing size in accordance with his/her needs.

0090(5) When the card printing is carried out, since it is possible to recognize a plurality of images as a single printing image, a printing image in which a plurality of images are combined can be printed on the CD-R <b>14</b>.

0091(6) Since the printer <b>1</b> has both the scanner feature and card-reading feature, it is possible to carry out scan-printing and card-reading and printing with a single unit of the printer <b>1</b>.

0092Furthermore, the above-described embodiment may be subjected to the following modifications.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 1

0093The sizes of the CD-R <b>14</b> are not limited to two types. The size(s) may be one type or three or more types.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 2

0094The sample medium is not limited to a CD-R. For example, medium other than the CD-R, such as, for example, DVD-R, etc., may be employed. The sample medium is not limited to a medium, in which digital signals can be written, such as a CD-R. It may be a medium if it has a thickness to such a degree that shadow portions are produced when scanning.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 3

0095The image quality mode is not limited to two types which are high image quality mode and high-speed mode, and other mode(s) may be employed. For example, the mode(s) may be three or more types for which the high image quality mode is made to have multiple steps.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 4

0096When the image quality mode is a high-speed mode and the RAM <b>24</b> is short in memory in scanning, the scanning is not limited to low resolution scanning (memory resolution X<b>2</b>). The memory resolutions at this time may be values differing from each other.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 5

0097It may be composed that threshold values Ma which are used to determine the memory storage of the RAM <b>24</b> in scanning are stepwise provided in a plurality and the sample CD-R <b>25</b> is scanned at memory resolutions responsive to the result of determination. That is, where it is determined that the memory capacity becomes lower than the lowest threshold value Ma, the scanning is carried out at the lowest memory resolution, and where it is determined that the memory capacity is lower than the second lowest threshold value Ma, the scanning is carried out at the second lowest memory resolution.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 6

0098When the RAM <b>24</b> is short in memory when scanning, the printing is not limited to printing at a printing resolution responsive to the image quality mode at that time. For example, the entire image is outputted and printed at a low resolution regardless of the image quality mode.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 7

0099The CD-R tray <b>15</b> is not limited to a component which is separate from the printer <b>1</b>. For example, it may be a type integrally formed with the printer <b>1</b>.

MODIFIED EXAMPLE 8

0100It is not necessary that the printer <b>1</b> has both a scanner feature and a card-reading feature as a single unit. It may be provided with either one of these.

0101Next, a description is given below of the technical idea or thought which can be comprehended from the above-described embodiment and modified examples along with the effects thereof.

0102(1) In the invention, the above-described sample medium is shaped to be like a circular disk as its outer shape and to have a hole portion at the center thereof, and the above-described image processing unit masks pixels of the shadow portions of the above-described sample medium, central hole portion (<b>31</b>) thereof and outside portion (<b>32</b>) of the shadow portions, which are portions not required to be printed, and makes the pixels into data for which no color is provided on the medium when printing.

0103(2) The invention is provided with unit (<b>16</b>) for identifying sizes of the sample medium, and the image processing unit masks the pixels of the shadow portions responsive to the size of the above-described sample medium of the image data on the basis of the result of identification made by the identifying unit.

0104(3) In the invention, the capture unit is a reading device (<b>13</b>) which takes in images by reading image data stored in the above-described memory medium.

0105(4) In the invention, the above-described image processing unit sets an area corresponding to the printing area of the above-described image data read by the reading device as an area to be printed, on the basis of the printed area of the above-described medium, which is a subject to be printed, and on the basis of the result of setting, the image processing unit develops image data of pixels corresponding to the above-described printing area, and, when printing, masks pixels protruding from the above-described medium as portions not required to be printed.

0106(5) In the invention, the operating unit is operated when selecting and setting layout information (R) of an image printed onto the above-described medium, and the above-described image processing unit develops image data of pixels corresponding to the above-described printing area by reflecting the layout on the basis of the above-described layout information (R) set by the above-described operating unit.